Maulbronn Monastery (Kloster Maulbronn)
Klosterhof 5, Maulbronn, Germany, 75433
Considered the best-preserved medieval monastery north of the Alps, Maulbronn Monastery (Kloster Maulbronn) has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993. Comprising a mix of architectural styles—and home to an array of buildings, exhibition areas, and artworks and artifacts—it’s a popular stop for history and architecture buffs.
The basics
Nestled among the rolling hills of Germany’s Stromberg region, Maulbronn Monastery was one of the first locations to bring Gothic-style architecture to Germany. Today, its notable features include medieval defensive walls, a complex irrigation system, ornate cloisters, and a dedicated fountain house. The monastery is also home to exhibition areas and a school, formerly attended by luminaries Johannes Kepler and Hermann Hesse. Maulbronn Monastery is one of several notable landmarks on “the monastery route” that covers the northern Black Forest, making it accessible to discover independently.
Things to know before you go
Most of Maulbronn Monastery has barrier-free access, making it largely accessible to disabled visitors.
In addition to its architectural highlights, the monastery is home to a number of historic artworks worth seeking out, including the wood-carved Maulbronn Madonna, high altar, and Maulbronn Crucifix.
Admission tickets can be purchased on-site; for an additional fee, visitors can explore with an audio guide in German, English, Spanish, French, Italian, or Japanese.
How to get there
Maulbronn Monastery is located at Klosterhof 5, 75433 Maulbronn. The closest nearby city is Pforzheim, located some 11 miles (18 kilometers) away; it’s a 30-minute trip by car via the B294 or the RB72 bus. The monastery is also located within an hour’s journey by car from Stuttgart.
When to get there
Maulbronn Monastery is open throughout the year. During the summer high season, from March 1–October 31, it is open daily from morning until late afternoon. During the winter low season, from November 1–February 28 or 29, it is open daily except Mondays and has slightly reduced visiting hours. The last admission is always 45 minutes before closing time.
Black Forest monasteries
Maulbronn Monastery is one of several landmarks that make up the informal “monastery route” that passes through the northern Black Forest. After your visit, continue to nearby Hirsau Monastery (a former Benedictine abbey that is now in ruins) and Alpirsbach Monastery (which was consecrated in 1095 and offers a revealing look into medieval history and daily life).
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